What is the primary organic component responsible for the characteristic pungent smell of rotten eggs?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless chemical compound with the characteristic foul odor of rotting eggs, produced naturally during the bacterial breakdown of organic matter containing sulfur in the absence of oxygen. Unlike sulfur dioxide, which has a sharp, irritating burning smell, hydrogen sulfide is extremely toxic even at low concentrations due to its olfactory fatigue effect.